Mavericks Seeking First Blood vs Clippers
Mavericks vs Clippers Betting Lines Favor Visitors For Game 1
The Dallas Mavericks and Los Angeles Clippers kick off their NBA playoff campaigns on Sunday. Mavericks vs Clippers betting markets have the Mavericks at -1.5 on the road, but Game 1 is expected to be tight. The Western Conference heavyweights battle at Crypto.com Arena, and we anticipate an epic opening contest.
Mavericks vs Clippers 
Records: Dallas Mavericks (50-32), L.A. Clippers (51-31)
Day, Time:
Location: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
Streaming: ABC
Time for Stars to Shine
There is no better time for Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving to showcase their excellent NBA skills than in Game 1. Despite talks of Irving potentially leaving mid-season, he should consider himself lucky to have stayed with Dallas, which is a genuine NBA title contender.
Based on the Mavericks NBA game results, they have every chance of going deep in the playoffs, and they have every chance of beating the Clippers in the opening game on Sunday. Winning on the road in the playoffs against Kawhi Leonard and Paul George isn’t easy. However, as Mavericks vs Clippers betting suggests, they’re expected to take a 1-0 lead.
Regardless of MVP results, Doncic has had an MVP year. The superstar averaged 33.9 points per game, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.8 assists. That’s legendary numbers, and having Irving to compliment you adds to their appeal.
Defense is why the Mavericks have struggled to progress deep into the playoffs in recent years. However, the Southwest division winners should play with more energy in the playoffs.
We’re not shocked by the -125 moneyline odds for them to take the opening NBA game. It will set the tone for the rest of the series, and they should come out with a full head of steam.
Losing Confidence in the Clippers
There is a distinct lack of confidence in the Clippers with NBA betting lines. They lost their last three NBA regular season games to the Suns, Jazz, and Rockets, which isn’t ideal form. However, they hold a 2-1 advantage over the Mavericks, so they should feel confident of holding down home court.
The problem is the questions around Leonard, who is getting injections for inflammation in his knee. That’s a huge concern, and even if he does play, he’s clearly not at full health. Los Angeles needs him to be at his best to handle the Mavericks. Leonard averaged 23.7 PPG. But his leadership will be sorely missed if he’s watching from the sidelines.
It’s rare to see the Clippers as underdogs at home, but until his status is unknown, they will remain the +1.5 underdogs. The NBA spread could move, but head coach Tyronn Lue hopes to have him on the court.
“I’m preparing for him, to have him on the court,” Lue said. “We just take it day by day.
“He’s progressing. He’s getting better. We don’t have a timetable. But whatever is best for him is what we’re going to do. Not sure of the minutes yet, or how long he’ll be able to play.”
One thing is for sure, depending on his availability, Mavericks vs Clippers betting lines will move over the weekend.
Stealing a Road Win
The Mavericks would love to secure a road win and take the lead, which would change the course of the series. We have been more impressed with the Mavericks even if they have a worse record than the Clippers. Having Doncic and Irving at their disposal is huge. They enter the NBA playoffs with confidence on their side.
We’re happy with the -1.5 line. If Leonard misses the game, it should move to around -3.5.
We’re also locking in under 223.5 points. There are plenty of points in these NBA teams but they could play nervously. That should see the under cash, and there were only 195 points scored when they met in November.
Take Clippers under 111 as well. That’s a fair line from the sportsbook as we can’t see them producing a big score.
For NBA betting news, odds analysis, and more, visit Point Spreads Sports Magazine.
